DJI Spark vs. DJI Mavic Pro Direct Comparison

Some time ago I already published a comparison between the two newest, compact drone models DJI Spark and Yuneec Breeze. Both weigh less than 400 g/ 0.88 pounds and are very handy, so the comparison is obvious. But I am always asked if the Spark is “good enough” for photos compared to the more expensive DJI Mavic Pro. Basically, the Mavic is a bit bigger and heavier, but the price has dropped a little, which obviously makes the model more interesting also for price-conscious buyers. So here is the direct comparison between the Spark and the Mavic Pro:

The Spark measures 5.63 x 5.63 x 2.16 in (L×W×H) and weighs 0.66 pounds (300 g), the Mavic weighs more than twice as much at 1.62 pounds (734 g) and measures 7.79 × 3.26 × 3.26 in (L×W×H) folded in. The advantage is precisely these foldable outriggers, which makes the drone particularly handy for transport, for example in a backpack. The Spark cannot be folded in. Together with the highly recommended controller (an additional 300 g), however, the Mavic is already over one kilo, a weight that many people are afraid of when packing for a longer hike. So it depends on whether weight or size is weighted more strongly. Hence a draw.

Spark: 1 – Mavic: 1

DJI Mavic Pro (left) next to the Spark

Flight time:

Spark offers a flight time of 16 minutes in the best conditions. The Mavic has a significantly larger battery and can last a maximum of 27 minutes, but the disadvantage can be compensated very easily with the purchase of additional batteries. A stopover to change the battery doesn’t bother the amateur photographer.

Spark: 0 – Mavic: 1

Video:

Spark offers “only” 1080p video resolution, the Mavic can film in 4K on request. Spark has a neat 2-axis gimbal, which clearly stabilizes and balances the video recordings, but the Mavic is also ahead here with a 3-axis gimbal. Especially during turns, the recordings of the Mavic are smoother due to the better gimbal. With both models you can take great pictures in good lighting conditions, the difference only becomes really visible in poor lighting conditions.

Spark: 0 – Mavic: 1

DJI Mavic Pro

Camera:

Both models have a camera with 12-megapixel resolution, the image sensor measures 1/2.3″. The image quality depends not only on the size of the sensor but also on the chip for image processing, which differs between the two drones. Another important point for photographers: The Mavic can also shoot in RAW format, giving more flexibility for post-production. The Mavic camera can be rotated through 90 degrees, which allows vertical selfies and videos. The shots of the sparks also look quite good unprocessed (or are already being processed more intensively within the camera). A hobby photographer who buys his first camera drone, however, was clearly advised to use Mavic.

Spark: 0 – Mavic: 1

Collison Avoidance

Sensors are installed in both drones to detect obstacles in front of the drone and avoid a collision. With the Mavic, the system works up to an airspeed of approximately 35 km/h. The Spark uses a new 3D-Sense & Avoid system, which only works at reduced airspeed up to approx. 10 km/h. But it also works surprisingly well indoors.

Spark: 1 – Mavic: 1

DJI Spark

Controls

Both drones are controlled via the DJI Go app on the smartphone. For the Spark, there is also gesture control, with which changes in direction can be signaled or recordings can be triggered by certain arm/hand movements. This works quite well, but I felt more like a gag for group photos and, at least for me, is not the preferred way to control the drone. However, there is an option for both the Spark and the Mavic to plug a controller onto the smartphone, which allows much more convenient and precise control with joysticks. With the accessory package (Fly-More combo) the price of the savings moves quickly towards 650 €, with the Mavic the controller is already included in the standard package for about $850.

Spark: 1 – Mavic: 1

Price

DJI Spark currently costs from about $ 315, with the recommended accessories package (Fly-More Combo) $ 550. The price of the Mavic has recently fallen below the $ 1’000 limit, currently, the standard scope of delivery of the Mavic Proinklusive Controller costs $ 850 € and the Fly-More Combo with three batteries $ 1150.

Spark: 1 – Mavic: 0

Conclusion:

The Mavic is 6 to 4 points ahead of the Spark! Therefore my recommendation goes easily to the Mavic Pro. Finally, it remains a question of price (besides the weight) whether you are willing to pay the extra Dollars. For occasional short aerial shots, the DJI Spark is a very good choice and flying is also fun. The controller makes the Spark expensive but makes precise control much easier. If you take a lot of photos in your free time without a drone and also like to edit your photos, you should consider the Mavic.